Revascularization of the lateral wall: Long-term angiographic and clinical results of radial artery versus right internal thoracic artery grafting

Abstract

Objective: We sought to evaluate whether the radial artery provides the same results as the right internal thoracic artery in lateral wall revascularization in the long term. Methods: From January 1992 to September 1996, 288 patients had myocardial revascularization with the left internal thoracic artery anastomosed to the left anterior descending coronary artery. The lateral wall was grafted with the radial artery in 139 patients (group A) and with the right internal thoracic artery in 149 patients (group B). Groups were different only because of older age and a higher incidence of patients requiring urgent treatment in group A. Y grafting was used in 86.4% of patients in group A and in 34.8% of patients in group B (P